Durham ISC students walking through campus

Study in the United Kingdom

Gain a world-class higher education in the UK while mastering your English language skills

Education in the UK

The second most popular study destination worldwide.

Quick facts

Number of international students: Up to 550,000 from more than 180 countries (HESA 2021/22)

Work opportunities: Stay and work for two years after completing your studies

Language: English

Geography: The United Kingdom is composed of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland

Length of study: Undergraduate: Typically three years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and four years in Scotland.
Postgraduate: Usually one year for master's programmes, though some can take two years; PhD programmes generally require three to four years.

Education structure: Divided into "stages" – primary, secondary, further education, and higher education. Undergraduates earn a bachelor's degree, while postgraduates pursue master's or doctorate degrees.

Why is the UK great for international students?

From lectures to landscapes, the UK has it all. Historic universities with their centuries-old traditions. The glorious, idyllic countryside. Groundbreaking research facilities in bustling, multicultural hubs. You’ll find what you’re looking for in the UK.

Culture and connections

With a variety of cultures informed by the country’s rich history and diverse population, students can find themselves tasting food from all over the world, sharing stories with people with vastly different life experiences, and enjoying the UK’s range of attractions. Many of the country’s world-renowned museums, art galleries, theatres, and castles offer student discounts. Some – like the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, and Kilchurn Castle – are even free.

Visit Scotland for stunning landscapes; London for endless entertainment; Cardiff for its thriving art scene; Yorkshire for historic towns; Leeds for its vibrant student scene; Durham for its intimate, beautiful city; and Sussex for its lively student culture by the beach.

High-quality education in Europe

There’s a reason why up to 550,000 students from more than 180 countries choose to study abroad in the UK (HESA 2021/22). UK universities for international students like Oxford and Cambridge set global standards for higher education, and four of the UK’s universities are in the world top 10 (Top Universities 2024). With prestigious universities in every corner of the UK, you can find the experience that suits you best.

88% of all students across the UK and Ireland who completed their pathway programme in 2022/2023 academic year with us were eligible to progress to the university of their choice.

Kick-start your career

The UK is an excellent place to launch your future career. Many UK universities work closely with multinational companies, meaning graduates with UK degrees are in high demand.

The UK’s Graduate Route allows international students to stay in the UK and work for up to two years after completing their studies. This not only boosts your employability, but it also gives you the opportunity to gain valuable insights and connections in one of the world’s most diverse and dynamic job markets.

“A degree from the UK is ranked much higher. Studying in the UK will help me to be more fluent in English. The probability to find a job is much bigger and the salary will be higher. Also, the way you’re educated is better and you are able to experience a lot of things, which you won’t be able to experience in your home country.”

Veronia from Egypt

Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering, Computing & Life Sciences at Liverpool John Moores University